A new traffic rule will require reducing speed by 20 kilometers per hour when overtaking cyclists

Starting from October 1st, an important modification to the General Traffic Regulations in Spain will come into force, with the aim of improving coexistence on roads and reinforcing the safety of cyclists. This alteration represents a significant change in traffic rules for bicycle users on Spanish roads.

The main novelty of this regulation establishes that any vehicle intending to overtake a bicycle must mandatorily reduce its speed by at least 20 km/h below the maximum allowed limit on the section where it is traveling. This obligation applies to all motor vehicles that share the road with cyclists.

The measure comes as a response to the need to guarantee greater protection for cyclists, one of the most vulnerable groups in traffic. Coexistence between motor vehicles and bicycles on roads has been a growing concern for traffic authorities, who intend to thus reduce the number of accidents involving these users.

This regulatory change reflects a European trend towards greater protection of more sustainable and vulnerable means of transport. Authorities expect that, with this measure, safer coexistence on Spanish roads between the different types of users of public roads can be achieved.